1998 Mazda 323 F VI (BJ) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Mazda 323 F VI (BJ) has a width of 1705 mm (67.1 inches). This relatively narrow width contributes to easier navigation through narrow city streets and tight parking spots. Internally, this width allows adequate shoulder room for passengers, consistent with many subcompact hatchbacks, balancing practicality and comfort for daily driving needs.

This Mazda generation has a height ranging between 1410 mm and 1420 mm (approximately 55.5 to 55.9 inches). This moderate height provides decent headroom for front and rear passengers, ensuring comfort without compromising the car's sleek, aerodynamic profile. The relatively low height also aids in reducing aerodynamic drag, which can improve fuel efficiency.

The curb weight of the Mazda 323 F VI (BJ) ranges between 1070 kg and 1195 kg (about 2,359 to 2,634 pounds). This lightweight construction benefits fuel economy, as lower mass requires less energy to move, and enhances handling agility. The car's balance of weight also contributes to stable driving dynamics, making it responsive and easy to control.

The maximum weight capacity of the Mazda 323 F VI (BJ) varies between 1585 kg and 1715 kg (roughly 3,496 to 3,779 pounds). This maximum weight includes the vehicle's curb weight plus passengers and cargo. Drivers should consider this limit to maintain safety and performance, ensuring they do not overload the car, which could impact braking, handling, and suspension.

The Mazda 323 F VI (BJ) provides a practical luggage capacity of 355 liters (12.5 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright. When the rear seats are folded down, the capacity significantly increases to 1000 liters (35.3 cubic feet). This versatility allows owners to transport larger items and increases the car’s usability for shopping, trips, and daily activities.

This generation of the Mazda 323 comes with rim sizes of 14 and 15 inches, paired with tire sizes including 175/65 R14, 185/65 R14, 195/55 R15, and 195/50 R15. Larger rims and lower-profile tires typically enhance handling and provide a sportier feel, while smaller rims with higher-profile tires offer a more comfortable and cushioned ride, allowing drivers to balance between responsiveness and road comfort.

Yes, the Mazda 323 F VI (BJ) fits comfortably into a standard garage. The typical garage size is usually about 2400 mm (94.5 inches) wide and 4800 mm (189 inches) long. Given the car’s length (4200-4290 mm) and width (1705 mm), it allows ample clearance for opening doors and maneuvering inside most standard residential garages, making it a practical choice for daily urban use.

Compared to its predecessor, the Mazda 323 F V generation, the 323 F VI (BJ) saw slight increases in length and curb weight. While exact dimensions vary by earlier model year, the newer generation grew to approximately 4200-4290 mm in length and weighs slightly more (1070-1195 kg). These dimensional changes improved interior space and safety without compromising maneuverability, offering a more modern and comfortable driving experience.

When compared to similar subcompact hatchbacks from the late 1990s and early 2000s, such as the Honda Civic hatchback or Volkswagen Golf Mk4, the Mazda 323 F VI (BJ) offers competitive dimensions and practicality. It is slightly shorter but comparably wide, with a well-designed interior space maximizing luggage capacity up to 1000 liters with seats folded. Weighing between 1070 and 1195 kg, it strikes a good balance between light weight and structural integrity, providing agility and efficiency on the road.